Marine Life Protection Act Initiative Central Coast Study Region

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Why the Initiative?  |  MLPA Summary  |  Memorandum of Understanding

The central coast study region (CCSR) was the first of five statewide study regions to complete the MLPA planning and implementation process. As mandated by the MLPA, the CCSR process (2004-2007) examined all existing MPAs within the CCSR (Pigeon Point to Point Conception); and created a suite of new MPAs along the central coast that will function as part of a statewide network of MPAs once MLPA implementation is completed. In the MLPA process MPAs are designed by members of a Regional Stakeholder Group in a collaborative public process, who work closely with the Science Advisory Team (SAT), the Blue Ribbon Task Force (BRTF), and the Department of Fish and Game, to develop a suite of alternative MPA proposals.

On April 13, 2007, after careful consideration and extensive public feedback, the Fish and Game Commission (Commission) voted unanimously for its preferred alternative, and adopted 29 MPAs in the CCSR. These 29 MPAs represent approximately 204 mi² or about 18% of state waters within the study region with approximately 85 mi² or about 7.5% of those 204 mi² designated as "no take" state marine reserves. On September 22, 2007 these 29 MPAs went into effect. To view a map of the new central coast MPAs, click here. For all current MPA regulations, maps and coordinates click here.

Several other key objectives were achieved during the CCSR, including:

1. Development of a draft master plan framework.
2. Draft recommendations for long-term funding sources for MPA implementation and management.
3. Draft recommendations for increasing coordination and cooperation among state and federal agencies with the authority to manage resources.
4. A recommended executive order to ensure implementation of the master plan by 2011, which was submitted.

In January 2007, the MLPA Initiative launched the planning process for the second study region, the north central coast (Alder Creek/Point Arena to Pigeon Point). For more information on the timeline and order of this regional process, click here (Adobe Acrobat required).

Popular Resources

• Central Coast Marine Protected Areas
  (includes maps and coordinates)
• Printer-Friendly Resources: Central Coast Marine Protected Areas (Adobe Reader required)
  • Detailed Guide with Maps (5.2 MB)
  • Brochure (407 KB)
• Final Environmental Impact Report for Proposed MPAs within the Central California Coast
  (Adobe Reader required; Large file size - 5.8 MB)
  • Click here to see a list of locations where print copies of the final EIR can be found (Adobe Reader required)
• Central Coast Regulatory and Environmental Review Process Documents (Updated January 21, 2007)
• California Fish and Game Commission initial preferred alternative for MPAs in the Central California Coast
  (Pigeon Point to Point Conception - August 15, 2006)